The United States supports Somalia's state formation process, currently underway, which will lay the foundation for a more representative government.

We continue to urge the Somali Government to begin the process to review the interim constitution and present a final version for its citizens to approve in a national referendum by early 2016.

We consistently urge the FGS to accelerate the pace of reform and to put in place the institutions, laws, and processes necessary to meet its Vision 2016 goals.

sometimes our diplomatic efforts are overlooked by the general populace

The administration's decision to nominate an Ambassador in Somalia offers at least a glimmer of hope for movement on the security and governance front.

This hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will come to order.

I hope that the spotlight that is being put by the Committee on this subject will help in stopping others from being victimized in the future.

I just want to thank you and the Committee and Ranking Member McCaskill for holding this hearing.

Mr. President, I rise today in support of Lee amendment No. 3023, which places commonsense limitations on the ability of the executive branch to unilaterally lock up large swaths of public land. Specifically, the amendment provides…

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that two legislative fellows in my office, Dr. Lauren Stump and Mr. Tom Zarzecki, be granted floor privileges throughout the remainder of the year. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so…

Mr. President, I rise today to speak in support of a bipartisan amendment I have submitted with the senior Senator from California. It would enable Arizona, California, and other drought- stricken States to store more water in…